Anoka County Set To Receive Over $660K In First Year Of New Five-Year SHIP Grant To Promote Healthier Communities

Anoka County Set To Receive Over $660K In First Year Of New Five-Year SHIP Grant To Promote Healthier Communities
By MinneapoliMedia Staff | July 29, 2025

Anoka County is poised to continue its commitment to community health through a renewed partnership with the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH). At its July 16 meeting, the Anoka County Board approved authorization to enter into a five-year grant agreement under the Statewide Health Improvement Partnership (SHIP) program. The newly authorized contract (#C0011735) will begin November 1, 2025, and extend through October 31, 2030.

The estimated funding for the first year of the grant, from November 1, 2025, to October 31, 2026, totals $660,160. This critical investment is part of a larger statewide initiative to address chronic disease risk factors and improve overall public health outcomes across Minnesota.

The SHIP initiative, administered by MDH, is a key public health strategy aimed at helping Minnesotans live longer, healthier lives by focusing on prevention. Through evidence-based strategies implemented across schools, communities, worksites, and healthcare settings, SHIP fosters sustainable change by influencing policies, systems, and environments to support healthier behaviors.

Anoka County’s Public Health and Environmental Services (PHES) department will be tasked with managing and implementing the grant in collaboration with local partners. As part of the grant requirements, the county must submit annual work plans, budgets, and regular evaluation data to demonstrate progress and impact. Special emphasis will be placed on ensuring that initiatives address health inequities and are tailored to the specific needs of Anoka County’s diverse communities.

“This partnership is not just about funding — it’s about aligning local initiatives with proven strategies to make meaningful, lasting change,” said Randi Prebil, Assistant Director of PHES, who submitted the proposal. The grant was approved by PHES Director Jonelle Hubbard.

SHIP funding is contingent on legislative approval during each biennium and requires a local financial match of 10 percent. Anoka County has previously participated in the SHIP program, having accepted a similar grant agreement covering 2020–2025.

As the new grant cycle begins, Anoka County is expected to build on past successes while driving innovative public health strategies that aim to reduce chronic illness, increase wellness, and promote equity across all segments of the population.

MinneapoliMedia